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Release No: 277-99June 04, 1999

ROVING SANDS, JOINT AIR AND MISSILE DEFENSE EXERCISE SET FOR MID-JUNE

U.S. Army Forces Command will conduct Roving Sands 99, the world's largest joint theater air and missile defense exercise from June 15-27. Roving Sands 99 combines command, control, communications and computer elements, air defense artillery and aircraft of the Army, Air Force, Marines and Navy, as well as multinational forces into a joint integrated air defense system.

More than 16,000 service members from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces and forces from Germany, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands will participate in the exercise.

Roving Sands 99 is one of a series of training opportunities that provide deployable forces with an increased understanding of joint and combined operations and tasks. Roving Sands will be conducted at training ranges and sites throughout Texas and New Mexico.

The training objectives for this exercise reflect a wide range of capabilities that may be needed in various geographical areas. This training will enhance the ability of commanders and staffs to plan and conduct joint and combined tactical air operations, and theater missile defense operations under realistic conditions.

For more information about Roving Sands 99 and to arrange visits to participating units, call the U.S. Army Forces Command Public Affairs Office at (404) 464-7311 or 7276 or visit the Roving Sands home page at www.rovingsands.forscom.army.mil.